A Winter Wonderland Awaits
The best time to go skiing is between December and April – which is the main ski season in most resorts.
Skiing is more than just a sport; it’s a way to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes the world has to offer. From powdery slopes to luxurious lodges, the globe is dotted with incredible ski resorts. In this blog, we’ll explore the best ski resorts in the world, each offering a unique blend of skiing excitement and luxury.
Embrace the King of the Mountains at Zermatt, Switzerland – Alpen Resort & Spa
Nestled at the foot of the Swiss Alps, the town of Zermatt is the prime location to admire the ‘King of the Mountains,’ the Matterhorn. Whether it’s for hiking, skiing, or mountain biking, the Alpen Resort & Spa is the ideal base. Situated in the Valais region and run by the third generation of a family from Zermatt, the resort boasts a top-quality spa and wellness center. After returning from the glaciers, lakes, mountain trails, and ski slopes, the resort offers seven types of massages, a Japanese onsen, complemented by a 45°C herbal steam treatment, providing relief for both skin and soul. Then, sitting down to savor the unique flavors of Swiss cuisine and a local specialty drink, this is the epitome of a leisurely winter time.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable 3+ level badge (including 26 sustainable development and environmental measures).
- Family-Friendly Facilities: Offers amenities for all ages, making it an ideal choice for family vacations.
- Close to Ski Lifts: The ski lift is very close, allowing for convenient travel to and from the ski slopes.
- Matterhorn Views: Majestic views of the ‘King of the Mountains,’ the Matterhorn, from the rooms, making every stay a unique memory.
- Culinary Delights: Authentic Swiss dishes, aromatic Alpine barbecues, bars, and cigar lounges, indulging in the luxury of winter days.
Nearby ski lifts:
- Zermatt-Sunnegga – 450 m
- Patrullarve – 1.3 km
- Eisfluh – 1.4 km
- Matterhorn Express Gondola – 1.5 km
- Zermatt – Furi Ski Lift – 1.5 km
- Matterhorn Express 1 – 1.5 km
Experience North America’s Largest Ski Destination –Whistler Blackcomb, Canada: FAIRMONT CHATEAU WHISTLER
What can compete with a ski resort that has hosted the ‘Winter Olympics’? Composed of Canada’s Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain, the ‘Whistler Ski Resort’ boasts 200 trails like strokes of an artist’s brush, crafting Canada’s most popular and beloved ski destination. Nestled at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain, ‘The Fairmont Chateau Whistler’ is a hidden sanctuary amidst the snowy mountains, ingeniously blending into the natural landscape, connected to the ski slopes. It offers skiers a place to rest, breathe, and find themselves, becoming the best base for this snowy expanse.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable 2 level badge (including 25 sustainable development and environmental measures)
- Soulful Spa: 15 treatment rooms, 2 handmade cedar steam rooms, ‘Ayurveda Spa’ to soothe the soul.
- Sustainable Golf Course: An ‘Audubon International’ certified eco-friendly golf course crafted by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.
- Diverse Room Options: Boasting 519 varied guest rooms, experience the essence of comfortable lodging.
Nearby ski lifts:
- Magic Chair – 200 m
- Excalibur Gondola – 650 m
- Fitzsimmons Express – 650 m
- Whistler Village Gondola – 750 m
Courchevel, France: A Part of the World’s Largest Ski Area – Ecrin Blanc Resort Courchevel
France’s Courchevel is part of the world’s largest ski area, ‘Les Trois Vallées’, and was certified in 2010 as a ‘Famille Plus Montagne’ friendly family mountain. Its five ski villages are interconnected by cable cars for easy transit, and on clear days, you can see the elegant silhouette of the ‘White Lady’, Mont Blanc, of the Alps. ‘Ecrin Blanc’ is ideally located at the foot of the Courchevel slopes, where the area gathers quality ski chalets, Michelin-starred restaurants, brand boutiques, and luxurious spa centers. The vibrant Alpine carnivals in winter, the world’s largest mountain fireworks festival ‘Festival International d’Art Pyrotechnique’, and ‘Aquamotion’, Europe’s largest mountain water park covering 15,000 square meters, make it an ideal spot for ski enthusiasts to relax and indulge in luxury.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable 2 level badge (including 25 sustainable development and environmental measures)
- Ski-in, Ski-out Access: The hotel’s base ski lift provides direct access to the slopes.
- Spa Paradise: Direct internal access to Aquamotion, including admission.
- Family-Friendly: Kids Club is a designated activity space for children aged 4 to 11.
- Meeting Space: A 240-square-meter conference room with natural lighting, flexibly providing an ideal venue for events.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- Grandes Combes Lift – 200 m
- Ariondaz Ski Lift – 450 m
- Marquis Ski Lift – 450 m
- Belvedere Ski Lift – 550 m
- Mickey Ski Lift – 550 m
- Grangettes Ski Lift – 600 m
- Tovets Ski Lift – 900 m
- Jardin d’Enfants – 1 km
- Jardin Alpin 1 Ski Lift – 1 km
- Verdons Ski Lift – 1.1 km
- Chenus Ski Lift – 1.1 km
- Jardin Alpin 2 Ski Lift – 1.2 km
- Plantrey Ski Lift – 1.2 km
- Loze B – 1.2 km
- Loze A – 1.2 km
- Epicea Ski Lift – 1.2 km
Aspen Snowmass, USA: A Ski Paradise with Four Mountains – Limelight Hotel Aspen
In Aspen, Colorado, a ski resort also coveted by Hollywood stars—Aspen Snowmass—features approachable slopes as well as competitive FIS Alpine Ski World Cup courses, offering an inclusive experience that has become a legendary sanctuary in the hearts of skiers worldwide.
Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, the Limelight Hotel Aspen is just a short walk from the mountain. Its simple yet unique modern aesthetics capture the spirit of the surrounding mountains, making it the perfect starting point for a journey to Aspen Mountain. A single lift ticket provides access to North America’s finest skiing across more than 5,600 acres and four mountain ranges. Beyond outdoor activities, guests can also stroll to the historic and lively nightlife of Aspen city, experiencing the local exquisite cuisine and cultural arts.
- Sustainable Travel: LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, with energy efficiency 18% above standard.
- Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends along! A proud tradition held by the hotel for over 40 years.
- Rooftop Terrace: Enjoy picnics, cocktails, and family meals amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains.
- ASPENX: Experience customized culinary feasts brought to you by the Little Nell culinary team in a chic mountain cabin.
- One Ticket to Adventure: ‘Aspen Mountain’ for hiking enthusiasts, the locally beloved ‘Aspen Highlands,’ ‘Buttermilk’ suitable for beginners, and the boundless potential of ‘Snowmass.’ The four mountains complement each other, offering fun for both beginners and professional skiers alike.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- Shadow Mountain – 400 m
- Little Nell – 400 m
- Silver Queen Gondola – 400 m
- Bell Mountain – 950 m
- Ruthie’s – 1.4 km
Niseko, Japan: Powder Snow and Unique Culture –Andaru Collection Niseko アンダルコレクションニセコ
What do we truly desire from an ideal ski vacation? The enjoyment of freedom.
Surrounded by national parks, Niseko in Hokkaido, Japan, is a 120-minute drive from Sapporo. With pleasant temperatures in summer and the world’s finest ‘powder snow’ in winter—boasting a very low moisture content and a soft, silky touch—it attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. They gather at the foot of Mount Annupuri, within the four interconnected large ski areas of ‘Niseko United.’ In this Hokkaido powder snow sanctuary, surrender your senses to nature and relish in absolute freedom.
‘Andaru Collection Niseko,’ with its iconic ‘Kamakura’ style architecture, stands side by side in the Niseko forest, blending seamlessly into nature as if it were a natural secret haven. The hotel boasts an excellent location, courteous staff, and facilities in harmony with nature, offering the ultimate skiing experience. At the same time, guests can savor Japan’s unique aesthetics and cuisine, arriving at this secluded spot for an irreplaceable cultural experience.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable level 1 (including 14 sustainable development and environmental measures)
- Global Selection: Featured in the 2024 ‘MICHELIN Guide for The Smallest New Hotels’
- Architectural Aesthetics: Inspired by the traditional dwellings of the Ainu people, blending into nature, dedicated to travelers with unique style.
- Luxury Camping: A hybrid resort that blends extraordinary comfort with a sense of security, offering a luxurious experience not found in the city.
- Restaurant ULTIMO: The hotel’s head chef changes the menu daily, based on local fresh ingredients, offering unique culinary creations.
Near by Ski lifts
- Double Lift 4. – 1.7 km
- Niseko Gondola – 1.7 km
- 6p Gondola – 1.7 km
St. Anton, Austria: A Haven for Advanced Skiers – Hotel Maiensee
St. Anton in the Austrian Alps is known for its challenging runs and off-piste opportunities, making it a haven for advanced skiers. The après-ski culture here is lively, with numerous bars and clubs to wind down in after a day on the slopes.
Hotel Maiensee in the Austrian Alps offers direct ski slope access to St. Anton am Arlberg and St. Christoph resorts, ideal for ski enthusiasts. It features a notable wine cellar, a high-quality restaurant with international cuisine, and a cozy Apres-Ski bar with an open fire and terrace. Guests can also indulge in relaxation at the on-site spa, which offers various treatments, a spa bath, sauna, and steam room, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and luxury.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable level 1 badge (including 14 sustainable development and environmental measures).
- Ski Access: The hotel is located right beside the ski slope, with direct foot access to the snow field. Rich History: Austrian Tyrol style, open fireplaces, and furnishings with a history of 500 years.
- Unique Cuisine: Taste the best organic beef burgers at the Maiensee Burger Bar.
- Excellent Location: Ski schools, pass offices, and sports equipment rental services are all within walking distance.
- Wellness and Spa Facilities: For relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel’s wellness area offers a sauna, steam bath, and Jacuzzi.
- Culinary Delights: The hotel prides itself on its culinary offerings, from a rich breakfast buffet to delicious meals in the traditional Maiensee Stuben restaurant. Guests can also enjoy a relaxing drink at the 1901 Lounge & Bar or savor gourmet burgers at the Maiensee Burger Bar.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- St. Christophbahn – 50 m
- Übungslift St. Christoph – 100 m
- Maiensee – 150 m
- Arlenmähder – 850 m
Vail, USA: A Massive Ski Resort with Diverse Terrain – The Sebastian Vail
Vail is rated as a top ski destination in North America, boasting stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes with an annual snowfall of 370 inches. Vail’s three ski areas include The Front Side, with its gentle slopes ideal for beginners; The Back Bowls, offering expansive snowfields and complex trails for intermediate to advanced skiers; and Blue Sky Basin, featuring cornice terrain hidden among forests, even boasting ski runs with vertical drops of over 1,000 meters, among the world’s highest.
The Sebastian hotel, located at the heart of the ski resort ‘Vail,’ allows travelers to seamlessly adapt to the altitude in recovery suites, rejuvenate with massages at Bloom Spa after skiing, relax at The Library contemporary art center, savor gourmet dishes at the Leonora star-rated restaurant, and immerse in the mountain-view pool. Of course, a visit to Vail Village is a must, to enjoy the local culture, film festivals, and all the delightful atmosphere of this charming, colorful, and international town. Remember, the vacation starts the moment you arrive.
- Sustainability : Establishment of Folds of Honor, Timbers Kiawah Conservation Center, 20 years of South Sea beach clean-up.
- Embracing Nature: High-altitude soothing massages, ocean scrub spa and wellness center, respecting local natural elements.
- Family-Friendly: Specially designed Tykes Room, Base Camp, and skiing facilities for children.
- Ski Base Camp: (Ski & Base Camp) provides everything needed for skiing enthusiasts in the Rocky Mountains.
- Awards and Recognition: Rated as the number 1 hotel in ‘Vail’ by ‘U.S. News & World Report’.
- Dining Options: Leonora, an in-house restaurant, offers a menu with a variety of dishes including Tuna Tartar, Roasted Cauliflower Salad, and a selection of hot tapas, large plates, and desserts. For a sophisticated lounge experience, The Gambit Bar serves artful cocktails and savory bites, with live entertainment adding to the ambiance.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- Gondola One – 550 m
- Gopher Hill Lift -12 – 800 m
- Born Free Express -8 – 850 m
- Eagle Bahn Gondola -19 – 900 m
- Riva Bahn -6 – 900 m
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: The Queen of the Dolomites – Franceschi Park Hotel
Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, is renowned for its stunning scenery and elegant atmosphere.It’s a perfect blend of challenging runs and cozy mountain retreats, making it a top choice for those who appreciate the finer things alongside their skiing adventures.
Franceschi Park Hotel, located a short 2297 feet from the Funivia delle Tofane cable car and ski lifts, offers rooms with beautiful Dolomites views.Guests can enjoy a varied buffet breakfast and savor local and national cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. Nearby, just 820 feet away, are an ice rink and an astronomic center, and a bus stop 164 feet from the hotel provides easy access to Cortina d’Ampezzo’s ski areas. Franceschi Park Hotel is ideal for ski lovers and those eager to explore the region’s attractions.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable level 2 badge (including 22 sustainable development and environmental measures)
- Unique Style: Inspired by tradition, equipped with exquisite wooden furniture, traditional ceramic stoves, exuding a strong Alpine style.
- Convenient Services: Spacious parking, ski and bicycle storage facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for travelers.
- Serene and Spacious: The hotel is located in the largest private green park in ‘Cortina d’Ampezzo’.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- Ski Lift Faloria – 600 m
- Cortina-Colfiere-Col Drusciè – 700 m
- Funivia Faloria (Cortina-Mandres-Faloria) – 700 m
- Roncato – 950 m
Gstaad, Switzerland – Skiing in Style: Le Grand Bellevue
In the heart of Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland lies an elegant mountain range that bestows the first snow of winter upon the people. Poets and artists, drawn by this inaugural snowfall, have sung countless praises under the name of the ‘Jungfraujoch’, making it synonymous with poetry. Under the gaze of the ‘Top of Europe’, Bern became the birthplace of snow sports, not just as a World Cup venue but also the ‘Gstaad Mountain Rides’ ski resort, with its 53 cable car stations. Its unique and diverse 80 slopes, including the highest ski runs exceeding three thousand meters, have become a paradise for freestyle skiers, snowboarders, and cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
‘Le Grand Bellevue’, awarded the ‘Hotel of the Year’ in Switzerland, is situated at the center of Gstaad, becoming the most stylish base for ski enthusiasts. The hotel is renowned for its five-star cuisine, with rustic oak and pine furnishings paired with understated luxurious furniture, woven into a retro ‘Modernism’ style. Through the loft and floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms, travelers can gaze upon the town of ‘Gstaad’ and admire the Alpine range, quietly listening to the harmony between man and nature
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable level 1 badge (including 16 sustainable development and environmental measures).
- Prime Location: The hotel is situated in the heart of Gstaad, Switzerland, providing convenient access to well-known attractions.
- Wine Tasting: Embrace a collection of over 9,000 bottles of fine wines in Leonard’s wine cellar.
- Exceptional Culinary Art: LEONARD’s awarded the highest honor of ‘Chef of the Year’ by Gault&Millau, equivalent to Michelin.
- Le Grand Natural Spa: 900 square meters of traditional and modern facilities, including herbal treatments, Turkish, infrared steam rooms, and Himalayan salt baths.
Nearby Ski Lifts:
- Huble – 1 km
- Ski Lift Gstaad-Eggli – 1.2 km
- Saanen-Eggli – 1.3 km
- Zuckerli – 1.3 km
- Ski Lift Rutti – 1.4 km
Beneath the Aurora: The Stunning Cube at Saariselkä, Finland : VALO Ice Cube Villas
Located above the Arctic Circle, ‘Saariselkä’, the northernmost ski resort in Europe, boasts vast and diverse landscapes with over 200 kilometers of well-maintained trails, offering endless skiing experiences. Speed through the snow under the harshest winter conditions, with clean, crisp air brushing against your face. Atop the hills of Kaunispää and Kiilopää, marvel at the aurora borealis within reach, leaving daily life behind. Oh, and remember to visit ‘Rovaniemi’, the town with a magical office (Santa Claus Office), where legend says Santa Claus resides.
Finnish Lapland, a place where nature’s contradictions coexist – rugged yet relaxed, dark yet bright, cold yet warm. ‘VALO Ice Villa’ elevates this uniqueness, nestled between the forests and the snowy landscape of Saariselkä ski resort, embracing Nordic architectural style, quality furniture and fixtures, and local natural materials, symbolizing enduring functional beauty.
Return to the understated luxury of the ‘Art Deco’ style villa after activities in the Arctic Circle, experience the Finnish sauna, relax by the fireplace, and gaze at the Northern Lights through the window, in silence and solitude, enjoying a sustainable haven in the Arctic.
- Sustainable Travel: Travel Sustainable level 1 (including 20 sustainable development and environmental measures)
- Ski-in, Ski-out Access: The villa offers direct access to the slopes, with 15 different types of ski runs suitable for all levels of skiers.
- Cultural Heritage: Experience the legendary cultural heritage of Europe’s indigenous ‘Sámi’ people.
- Arctic Expeditions: From husky hunting and reindeer sledding to snowmobiling, challenge the legendary Arctic Circle.
- Convenient Location: A short walk from the villa to the local village center.
Nearby ski lifts:
- Tuolihissi Triple Lift – 500 m
- Ankkurihissi 3 T-bar – 500 m
- Sompahissi Lift – 600 m
- Ankkurihissi 1 T-bar – 700 m
- Ankkurihissi 2 T-bar – 750 m